Industry studies indicate that the biggest problems in science and technology research and development are 1) managing R&D for business growth, 2) balancing long-term and short-term initiatives in R&D, 3) the integration of R&D and business strategy, 4) making innovation happen, and 5) assessing scientist productivity. Interestingly none of these issues are purely technology related. In fact, the major issues are all at the intersection of technology, law, and business application. Other studies related specifically to post doctorates reveal that although PhDs in Science and Technology will typically have outstanding technology skills, these graduates often lack skills in management, communication, and working effectively in a team. The purpose of TI:GER^® is to help PhD students develop an awareness of innovation processes – particularly as they relate to the business and legal activities necessary to commercialize new technology – and to build skills that will help them succeed, whether they remain in a University environment as a researcher, or move into an industry setting.

TI:GER students participating in research.

The TI:GER program is targeted toward PhD candidates that have typically completed their second year in the PhD program, passed their discipline qualifiers, and have selected a research topic. To be accepted for TI:GER students must have an outstanding track record in academics, expressed an interest in technology transfer and entrepreneurship, and be recommended by their academic advisor. Find out more information on the application process.

Program Benefits
Program benefits include:

• Eight ½ time Graduate Research Assistantships are available for PhD candidates to participate in the program. Each GRA carries a ½ time tuition waiver.  These will be awarded on an annual basis for the two years that the PhD is in the TI:GER program. The incoming students in August 2008 are designated as NSF IGERT associates.

• PhDs will receive very early exposure of their technology to likely legal, business, and market issues; and will be able to leverage these insights in terms of adjusting research direction or priorities. The program in effect helps increase the probability that the PhDs research will be both technical and market relevant.

• All students in TI:GER have access to a High-Tech Laboratory Environment for resolving typical commercialization/business start-up business, legal, and organizational issues. The Lab environment also includes exclusive access to research services and various business and regulatory databases and database services.

• Opportunities to develop cross-institute and cross-university relationships and business networks as well as practical experience in working cross-culturally between people with deep perspectives and mindsets in business and law.

• Exposure to leading business executives and professionals

• A competitive advantage in the post-graduate job market
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Academic Track